The scenic trail corridor stretching 13 miles south to north from Burlington to Wind Lake is actually comprised of three rail-trails-the Burlington, Waterford-Wind Lake, and Norway trails-stitched into one. (Racine County standardized its trail signs several years ago, and the distinct names of the walking paths and biking trails are not specified on the new signs.)
Start your trip in Riverside Park in Burlington, which is located along the picturesque Fox River. You'll find parking, bathrooms, and picnic pavilions at this lovely community park. Traveling north from Riverside Park, the 4-mile Burlington Trail section runs along the east side of Highway 36. After crossing Highway 36 you'll travel west through a pine forest before hitting a short on-road detour. Back on the trail, the path returns to woods and crosses the Fox River. After passing Case Eagle Park, with ball fields, a playground, and seasonal restroom facilities, the trail returns to Highway 36, this time traveling north along the west side. The highway is a constant until just outside of Waterford where the trail veers into residential and remote sections of this community. There are several street crossings before the end at Buck Road where the trail seamlessly transitions into the Waterford-Wind Lake section.
The 5 miles of the Waterford-Wind Lake section run mostly along the west side of Highway 36; however, significant tree cover on both sides lets you forget you are close to the road. As you approach the community of Wind Lake, you will detour on-road. Turn left at South Wind Lake Road, then right at South Loomis and follow this north until you come to a Y in the road where South Loomis and Racine Avenue intersect. Stay on Loomis and bear right toward the traffic light and cross Highway 36.
The Norway Trail picks up on the east side of Highway 36. Look for the trailhead on your left as soon as you cross the highway. Following this 1.2-mile rail-trail north to the county line, you will enjoy remote wetland scenery. When the trail shifts from crushed stone to grass, keep going until the trail dead-ends at a parking lot and boat access for Muskego Canal, providing access to Big Muskego Lake.